RIP Teddy Pendergrass

Barry White may've had the low seductive angle all locked up but Teddy Pendergrass had the complete package. Gruff yet smooth; passionate yet restrained, Teddy Pendergrass was one of Philadelphia's true soul giants. Now comes the sad news that Mr. Pendergrass passed away at 59. He had been suffering from colon cancer, not to mention that in 1982 a car accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. It's not clear whether Pendergrass' earlier accident had any influence on his death. Not that it matters now. Pendergrass left behind a mountain of classic tracks perfect for everything from baby making to strolling the streets of your local town. Initially known as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes, Teddy struck out on his own in the late 70's to even greater success. If you haven't heard any of his songs, let his untimely death lead you to them. A few to get you started:

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Alex Pudlin is a writer of screenplays, children's books and music reviews. Above all else though, Alex is a music junkie, who has spent more time in LA County record stores than the doctor recommends.